Here we are again! We are all lockdown experts by now, but it has been some time since we were in the strict environment of Level 4.
Many parents who share the care of their children may have questions regarding their custody arrangements, and just how these arrangements will work during Level 4. Likewise, new care issues may arise during this lockdown period.
Firstly, we want you to know that we are thinking of you. We are here to chat if you have any concerns or need someone to talk to. In the meantime, below are some helpful guidelines, which are based on information we have at hand from the Ministry of Justice. If any of this information changes or new information comes to hand, we will post updates to keep you fully informed.
The courts and minister have asked parents to be understanding to the situation we find ourselves in. Again, these are unprecedented times. These restrictions are put in place to save lives, which could also very well mean the lives of your families, if these measures are not successful. The courts have also asked that “Parents put aside their conflict at this time and make decisions that are in the best interests of their child, and their families and the wider community. This global pandemic should not be seen as an opportunity for parents to unilaterally change established care arrangements without cause or otherwise behave in a manner inconsistent with the child’s best interests or the court- ordered care arrangements.”
Give our family law team a call if you need advice. You can contact us here, or at rebecca.kroeze@gazeburt.co.nz.